Path to Happiness

Chapter 23: A Loving Goodbye

The following day, Katrina and Chelsea sat down with Harper in the cozy living room of their home. The room was filled with a gentle morning light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Katrina began the conversation with a reassuring smile, her arm around Harper's shoulder. "Harper, we have something important to talk to you about."

Harper looked up at her mother, her bright eyes curious and attentive. "What is it, Mom?"

Chelsea joined the conversation, her presence calm and supportive. "Your mom, Katrina, has an important soccer match coming up with the Australian women's team. It's part of her job as a professional soccer player, and she'll be representing her country."

Harper's eyes widened with interest. "So, Mom's going to play soccer for Australia?"

Katrina nodded with a proud grin. "That's right, sweetie. I'm going to play for Australia in an international match. But that means I'll be away for a little while."

Harper's expression shifted, her enthusiasm giving way to a hint of uncertainty. "How long will you be gone, Mom?"

Katrina's heart swelled with love for her daughter. She hugged Harper closer and spoke gently. "I'll be gone for a few weeks, Harper. But you won't be alone. Mrs. Foster will be here to take care of you and make sure you have everything you need."

Chelsea added, "I promise, Harper, we'll have a great time while your mom is away. We can play, read, and maybe even have some special outings."

Harper considered their words, her young mind processing the information. "Okay, Mom, if it's for your soccer, I understand. And I like Mrs. Foster , so it'll be fun."

Katrina kissed Harper's forehead and whispered, "Thank you, sweetheart. You're the best daughter ever, and I'm so lucky to have you."

As the conversation continued, Katrina, Chelsea, and Harper talked about what they would do during the time Katrina was away, how they would stay connected through phone calls and video chats, and the exciting adventures they could have together.

As she wrote, Katrina carefully detailed the foods Harper loved—spaghetti with extra cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and her favorite blueberry pancakes. She also noted that Harper should have a glass of warm milk before bedtime and that reading a story together was a must.

With the list in hand, Katrina folded it neatly and placed it in an envelope. She knew that Chelsea would do an excellent job taking care of Harper, but she wanted to make sure everything was as smooth as possible during her absence.

Walking into the living room, Katrina found Harper playing with her toys. She knelt down beside her daughter, her eyes filled with affection. "Harper, there's something I want to give you."

Harper looked up with curiosity, her bright eyes meeting her mother's. "What is it, Mom?"

Katrina handed her the envelope. "This is a special list I made for Mrs. Foster It has all your favorite foods and bedtime routines. I want you to have a great time while I'm away, and Mrs. Foster is here to make sure you're happy and safe."

Harper's face lit up with a smile, and she took the envelope, understanding its significance. "Thanks, Mom. I like  Mrs. Foster, and I know we'll have fun."

Katrina hugged her tightly, her heart brimming with love. "I know you will, sweetie. I'll miss you every day, but I'll call and send you messages. And before you know it, I'll be back home."

With a tender kiss on Harper's forehead, Katrina rose to her feet. She turned to Chelsea, who had been watching the touching moment between mother and daughter. "Take good care of her, Chelsea."

Chelsea nodded with a warm smile, understanding the depth of their trust. "I will, Katrina. Harper is in good hands."

With one last loving look at her daughter and Chelsea, Katrina picked up her suitcase and headed for the door. It was a bittersweet goodbye, but she knew they would be fine until she got back.